Page 13 of Into the Fire

“That’s my goal.” Vic wrapped up what remained of his own order and tucked the takeout into the fridge before opening a can of soup and pouring it into a pan on the stove.

Minutes later, he placed a steaming bowl and a spoon in front of Simon and returned with a sleeve of saltine crackers. “Here you go. Eat up.” He watched as Simon inhaled the smell of the soup and heard his stomach rumble. “That’s it. Dig in. I’ll keep you company.”

While Simon ate, Vic kept up a one-way conversation, recounting police gossip and some of the more bizarre recent arrests. Simon finished the bowl of soup and half the crackers, washing it down with tea and a glass of cola.

“That hit the spot,” Simon admitted as Vic swooped in to take his dishes to the sink.

“Good. That new movie we wanted to see is on streaming,” Vic told him. “I’ll make popcorn. Get settled on the couch and pull it up.”

Simon headed for the living room while Vic puttered in the kitchen, putting together a cheese-and-meat tray and pouring a couple of glasses of wine in addition to the freshly popped popcorn to entice Simon to eat a bit more and relax.

“I hope the movie is as good as everyone says,” Simon commented as Vic got situated beside him, sharing a throw blanket.

“As long as it’s funny and brainless, it will be perfect.” Vic grabbed a handful of warm popcorn and stuffed it into his mouth.

An hour into the movie, and after a refill on wine, Vic felt Simon start to relax. They both picked at the snacks, and Vic noticed that Simon did his share on the charcuterie, which eased his worry a bit.

“I can’t believe the actors can keep a straight face and deliver those lines,” Simon commented in a sleepy voice. He leaned more against Vic, sounding exhausted.

“I guess that’s why they get paid the big bucks.” Vic moved to make it easier for Simon to snuggle into him, and it didn’t surprise him that Simon was asleep before the credits rolled.

Vic stayed put for a while, not wanting to disturb his partner. He scanned the news on his phone and played a couple of games, checked social media, and looked at the next day’s weather, killing time to let Simon rest.

Finally, Simon snuffled awake and stared bleary-eyed at the television, which had long since changed to a different movie.

“Did I fall asleep?”

“Uh-huh,” Vic confirmed.

“Is it tomorrow already?” Simon sounded completely lost.

Vic checked his watch. “Almost. Come on, let’s get you into a real bed so you can stretch out. A good night’s sleep works its own magic.” He trundled Simon into the bedroom to change clothes and brush his teeth. Vic made a quick round to put away food, turn off the television and the lights, and close up for the night before joining Simon. “Get comfy. I’ll be there in a minute.”

“I’m sorry,” Simon murmured. “We didn’t get very far on sexy times.”

Vic stepped closer to kiss him. “That’s okay. We can cuddle and save the mind-blowing sex for the morning.” Vic expected Simon to already be asleep by the time he joined him in bed, but Simon was awake enough to plant a kiss on his cheek and sling an arm across Vic’s chest, snuggling close.

“Best hubby in the whole world,” Simon murmured.

Vic kissed him on the forehead and ruffled his hair. “Funny thing. I’ve got the best one too.” He pulled Simon close, knowing that by morning body heat would have them on opposite sides of the bed. “Go to sleep. I won’t let anything happen to you.”

Simon gave a contented sigh and relaxed. Vic stared at the ceiling, thoughts whirling. Under normal conditions, his promise of protection held weight, a vow he was trained and able to fulfill. But that was against human dangers, not angry ancient spirits and malignant magic.

I’d take a bullet for him without a second thought. I hate knowing he’s in danger and not having a way to keep him safe.

Vic’s sleep was fitful and his dreams dark. He woke to Simon kissing him, pressing gently along his jaw and adding some kitten-flicks of tongue.

“Good morning,” Simon said, voice rough.

“Did you sleep?” Vic hoped Simon didn’t ask him the same question in return.

Simon shifted to be on his side, drawing Vic into his arms. “Enough. Better than when I’m not with you.”

“Glad to help.” Vic turned to face Simon and kissed him.

They stayed tangled together with soft touches and gentle kisses, not trying to escalate to more. Vic had learned through experience that there were times when a good orgasm took the edge off, and others when it didn’t. This morning, neither of them woke with a raging boner, something Vic took as a sign of stress.

“We can take a rain check on making out like horny wildebeests.”